An elderly spiritual healer has been convicted of sexually abusing children over 19 years.

Colin Fooks, 76, denied 10 offences of indecent assault, three of indecency with a child, two of causing a child to engage in sexual activity, one of sexual assault and one of sexual activity with a child.

He was cleared of two offences of indecent assault, one of sexual activity with a child and one of causing a child to engage in sexual activity and convicted of the remaining charges.Maidstone Crown Court was told that some of the offences were committed as long ago as 1993.

Colin Fooks will be sentenced at Maidstone Crown Court

Fooks, of Canterbury Street, Gillingham, and his wife, Maureen, were said to practise spiritual healing. Paul Valder, prosecuting, said the father-of-four used his hands while his wife used crystals.

The abuse included touching the children intimately and making girls touch him indecently, said Mr Valder. One later told police she felt scared but because of her age she did not know it was wrong.

Fooks is also accused of putting his mouth on her breasts, saying it would “help to make them grow”.

A boy told police he was abused while in public toilets. Another girl reported that Fooks would tickle her before molesting her. Fooks denied all the allegations when he was arrested.

He said his spiritual healing involved touching the person on their front and back.Fooks was bailed until July 4 for medical reports.